Business

Eastern region poised for tourism boom, says expert Pasan Wijewardana

Published

2 years ago

2024/10/6

Pasan Wijewardana

The Eastern region of Sri Lanka is ripe for a tourism renaissance, according to Pasan Wijewardana, Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing for Sun Siyam Pasikudah and Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. In a brief interview with the Sunday Island, Wijewardana emphasized the vast untapped potential of the East, highlighting its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse biodiversity.

While areas like the South and Hill Country have long dominated the tourism spotlight, Wijewardana believes that with increased investment and awareness, the East can emerge as a premier destination for both local and international travellers. “The East is not just a seasonal getaway; it offers year-round attractions that are often overlooked,” he explained.

The region’s pristine beaches, coupled with its historical sites and cultural experiences, provide a compelling case for extended travel options. Wijewardana noted that the East can be seamlessly integrated into Sri Lanka’s broader tourism strategy, particularly as a complement to the Cultural Triangle. “By promoting round trips that include cultural experiences alongside beach relaxation, we can diversify the overall tourism offering,” he stated.

The global tourism landscape is shifting towards more personalized, experiential, and sustainable travel options, especially in a post-pandemic world. Travellers are increasingly seeking unique experiences that connect them with nature and local culture. In this evolving context, Wijewardana sees Sri Lanka’s diversity—from heritage sites to nature reserves—as a key strength that can be leveraged to attract a wider audience.

“Destinations that can offer safety, flexibility, and authenticity will stand out,” he emphasized, pointing to the resilience of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry amid recent challenges. The country is gradually recovering and making strides to attract a variety of travellers, including eco-tourists, wellness seekers, and experiential travelers.

Wijewardana also highlighted the importance of positioning Sri Lanka as a safe and unique destination. “We can learn from our neighbors, like the Maldives, which has successfully carved out a niche in luxury tourism by offering exclusive, personalized experiences,” he remarked. “Sri Lanka has its own rich offerings that can appeal to discerning travelers, particularly if we focus on luxury experiences that integrate wellness and cultural immersion.”

The potential for multi-destination packages combining Sri Lanka and the Maldives presents an exciting opportunity for growth. “Imagine travellers enjoying a cultural adventure in Sri Lanka, followed by relaxation in the Maldives,” Wijewardana suggested. “This holistic travel experience could attract long-haul tourists looking for something beyond the ordinary.”

Sun Siyam Pasikudah aims to be at the forefront of this tourism shift, offering guests a tranquil, immersive experience that blends luxury with local culture. “Our property not only supports the local economy but also focuses on sustainable practices that preserve the environment,” he said. “As more tourists discover the beauty of the Eastern region, we hope to see it thrive, becoming a key player in Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape.”

With a career spanning various regions and prestigious properties, Wijewardana is passionate about creating memorable guest experiences and fostering partnerships that enhance tourism. “My aspiration is to showcase the best of Sri Lanka and the Maldives to the world,” he concluded. “By promoting our unique offerings and committing to sustainable tourism, we can elevate Sri Lanka’s tourism industry to its full potential.”

As Sri Lanka continues to recover and reposition itself in the global tourism market, experts like Wijewardana are optimistic about the Eastern region’s bright future as a leading travel destination.

All News Advertisement

Business

Indo-Sri Lanka Chambers forge alliance to drive infrastructure and real estate investment

Published

10 hours ago

2026/09/14

Thilina Walpola

The exchange of the MoU between the two organisations

By Sanath Nanayakkare

In a major boost to bilateral economic ties, the Chamber of Construction Industry of Sri Lanka (CCISL) and the Indo–Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ISCCI) have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation in real estate, infrastructure, and urban development.

The agreement establishes a formal framework for both institutions to drive collaborative initiatives, including business delegations, high-level conferences, workshops, B2B matchmaking sessions, and technical site visits. Designed to bridge businesses, government institutions, and project stakeholders across the Palk Strait, the partnership aims to unlock new avenues for cross-border joint ventures and technology transfers.

A focal point of this newly minted partnership is the facilitation of an upcoming trade delegation from the National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) of India. Comprising major Indian players in the real estate and infrastructure sectors, the visiting delegation will engage in targeted business meetings, workshops, and inspection tours of prominent construction projects in Sri Lanka.

Under the terms of the MoU, CCISL will serve as the principal host coordinator in Sri Lanka. In close consultation with ISCCI, the apex construction body will curate itineraries, identify viable projects for engagement, and facilitate high-level dialogues with key government agencies, regulatory bodies, and industry leaders.

With both nations prioritizing sustainable urban growth, modern construction technologies, and infrastructure expansion, industry leaders view the partnership as a timely catalyst for economic rejuvenation. The collaboration is anticipated to accelerate market access, knowledge exchange, and foreign direct investment into Sri Lanka’s burgeoning property and development sectors.

To ensure the success of the upcoming NAREDCO delegation, CCISL has issued an urgent appeal to statutory authorities and relevant project owners to come forward with viable investment proposals. Stakeholders holding projects seeking foreign investment or technical partnerships are invited to submit comprehensive details to the Secretary General and CEO of CCISL via email at secyces@gmail.com.

Both chambers emphasize that translating this foundational agreement into tangible partnerships and robust capital flows will significantly strengthen bilateral connectivity between the construction and real estate sectors of India and Sri Lanka.

Business

Hettich celebrates a decade in Sri Lanka with partner meet in Colombo

Published

10 hours ago

2026/09/14

Thilina Walpola

Over the past decade, Hettich has strengthened its presence in Sri Lanka through its focus on German engineering, innovation, quality and functionality

Hettich, the globally renowned German manufacturer of furniture fittings and architectural hardware known for its state-of-the-art manufacturing plants and magical interior solutions across the world celebrated a significant milestone in Sri Lanka, marking 10 years of presence in the country with its inaugural Partner Meet in Colombo.

The landmark event brought together Hettich’s key partners, stakeholders and industry leaders to celebrate a decade of growth, collaboration and shared success, while reaffirming the company’s long-term commitment to the Sri Lankan market.

Over the past decade, Hettich has strengthened its presence in Sri Lanka through its focus on German engineering, innovation, quality and functionality, contributing to the creation of contemporary and intelligently designed living and working spaces across the country.

The gala evening was graced by a distinguished delegation of senior leaders, including Dr. Andreas Hettich, Chairman, Hettich Group Advisory Board; S. K. Poddar, Chairman, Hettich India & Adventz Group; Mr. Akshay Poddar, Director, Hettich India; Andre Eckholt, Managing Director, Hettich India, SAARC, Middle East & Africa; Rahul Thakkar, Director – Sales, Hettich India & SAARC; and Dinusha Bhaskaran, Managing Director, Vallibel One PLC.

Business

GS Evo Motors launches all-new JMEV EWIND

Published

10 hours ago

2026/09/14

Thilina Walpola

Priyantha Perera, Chief Executive Officer of GS Evo Motors (left), and Sunil Wettasinghe, Chairman of GS Evo Motors, introducing the latest JMEV Ewind Electric SUV to the local market

GS Evo Motors Limited, the authorized distributor of JMEV electric vehicles in Sri Lanka, has officially launched the JMEV EWIND, a next-generation compact electric SUV. The vehicle is designed to offer strong performance, intelligent technology, premium comfort, and high safety standards, marking another milestone in Sri Lanka’s growing electric mobility sector.

The EWIND features a sleek, aerodynamic exterior with penetrating LED daytime running lights, trapezoidal chain-inspired LED tail lamps, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a bold silhouette. Inside, it offers a spacious cabin with a panoramic moonroof and retractable curtain, an ultra-thin suspended instrument panel, a D-shaped multifunction steering wheel, multi-colour ambient lighting, premium finishes, and electrically adjustable front seats.

The SUV is available in single-motor front-wheel drive configurations, producing up to 108 kW and 210 Nm, with 0–100 km/h acceleration in 8.9 seconds.